Grotte de Font-de-Gaume: A Paleolithic Masterpiece
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring original polychrome paintings from the Magdalenian period in one of the last accessible caves.
The Grotte de Font-de-Gaume, located near Les Eyzies, is one of the most significant Paleolithic sanctuaries in the world. This cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, contains over 200 remarkable polychrome paintings and engravings dating back approximately 17,000 years. It stands as one of the last caves of its kind still open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into the artistic expression of our prehistoric ancestors.
A brief summary to Grotte de Font-de-Gaume
- 1-4 Av. des Grottes, Les Eyzies, 24620, FR
- +33553068600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book tickets online well in advance, as visitor numbers are strictly limited to protect the cave's delicate environment.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour for ticket verification.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the walk to the cave entrance and the tour inside, as the path is steep and the cave floor uneven.
- Bring a jacket, as the temperature inside the cave is cool (around 14°C or 57°F).
- Leave backpacks and large bags in your car or at the designated area, as they are not allowed inside the cave.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the ticket office, located at 1-4 Av. des Grottes, it's a 400-meter uphill walk to the cave entrance. The path is paved but can be steep, so allow ample time, especially if you have mobility issues. The walk offers pleasant views of the surrounding limestone cliffs.
-
Public Transport
The Grotte de Font-de-Gaume is accessible via the Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil train station. From the station, it's approximately a 1.5 kilometer walk to the cave. Check local bus schedules for connections to the cave entrance, though walking may be the most practical option. Train tickets from Bordeaux to Grotte de Font-de-Gaume can range from €74 to €110. Bus tickets are around €74.
-
Parking
Free parking is available near the ticket office. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. From the parking area, it is a short walk to the ticket office and then uphill to the cave entrance. Be aware that you have to leave your belongings in the car.
Discover more about Grotte de Font-de-Gaume
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Abri de la Madeleine
3.5 km
Discover prehistoric life at Abri de la Madeleine, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Vézère Valley, France. Explore ancient art and Magdalenian culture.
Le Badaud
15.8 km
Meet Le Badaud, Sarlat's iconic bronze sculpture, offering a unique perspective on the historic Place de la Liberté.
Lanternes Des Morts
16.0 km
Explore the Lanternes Des Morts in Sarlat-la-Canéda, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the region's medieval heritage and architectural beauty.
Fort de La Roque-Gageac
17.4 km
Explore Fort de La Roque-Gageac, a historic gem by the Dordogne River, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
The Regourdou
17.7 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Regourdou in Montignac-Lascaux, where history and nature converge in a breathtaking prehistoric experience.
Château de Salignac
23.9 km
Explore the enchanting Château de Salignac, a cultural landmark steeped in history and surrounded by stunning gardens in the heart of Salignac-Eyvigues.
Château de Hautefort
37.1 km
Explore the enchanting Château de Hautefort, a historical gem in the Dordogne, showcasing stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage.
North of the Dordogne
41.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of North of the Dordogne, a hidden gem in southwestern France, rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Grottes de Lacave
43.1 km
Discover the breathtaking underground beauty of Grottes de Lacave, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of France's stunning landscapes.
Chateau de Gavaudun
43.3 km
Explore a medieval fortress in the Gavaudun Valley, with stunning views, rich history, and adventurous activities.
Statue Cyrano de Bergerac
43.9 km
A tribute to Cyrano de Bergerac in his namesake town, symbolizing wit, romance, and the spirit of French literature.
Chateau de Turenne
45.7 km
Explore a medieval fortress in one of France's most beautiful villages, with stunning views and a rich history to discover.
Les Pans de Travassac
51.9 km
Discover a unique slate quarry in Donzenac, France, where history, nature, and traditional craftsmanship come together for an unforgettable experience.
Château de Bourdeilles
55.0 km
Discover a Dordogne treasure: Château de Bourdeilles blends medieval might with Renaissance splendor, offering a unique historical journey.
Gouffre de Padirac
57.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gouffre de Padirac, a stunning underground chasm in southern France filled with fascinating rock formations and a serene subterranean river.
Unmissable attractions to see
National Museum of Prehistory
1.0 km
Explore the rich heritage of humanity at the National Museum of Prehistory in Les Eyzies, where ancient stories come to life through captivating exhibits.
Grotte des Combarelles
1.4 km
Explore Grotte des Combarelles, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Les Eyzies, where ancient cave art reveals the creativity of our prehistoric ancestors.
Grotte du Grand Roc
2.5 km
Discover the stunning Grotte du Grand Roc, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring remarkable prehistoric art and breathtaking geological formations in Les Eyzies.
Les grottes du Roc de Cazelle
2.9 km
Discover prehistoric life at Les Grottes du Roc de Cazelle in the Dordogne: caves, dwellings, and ancient artifacts await!
Préhisto Parc
5.1 km
Explore life-size prehistoric scenes at Préhisto Parc in Tursac, Dordogne, and step back in time to discover the world of Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons.
Fortified House of Reignac
5.2 km
Explore the Fortified House of Reignac, a captivating museum and historical landmark in the heart of the Vezere Valley, showcasing medieval architecture and rich heritage.
Château de Campagne
5.6 km
Discover the enchanting Château de Campagne, a majestic castle surrounded by stunning gardens and rich history in the heart of Dordogne, France.
Commarque Castle
6.0 km
Experience the allure of Commarque Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views and rich history in the heart of the Vézère Valley.
La Roque St. Christophe
6.6 km
Explore La Roque St. Christophe: A captivating prehistoric site offering stunning views and a unique glimpse into ancient human life.
Labyrinthe préhistorique
7.9 km
Explore a prehistoric maze in Le Bugue, Dordogne, with life-sized dinosaurs, Cro-Magnon exhibits, and family-friendly fun.
Aquarium Périgord Noir
7.9 km
Explore the enchanting underwater world at Aquarium Périgord Noir, where marine life and conservation come together in a captivating experience.
UNIVERLAND Le Bugue : Aquarium Périgord Noir - Big Bird - Labyrinthe Préhistorique - Jungle Golf
7.9 km
Explore Europe's largest freshwater aquarium, soar through the skies, and journey back to prehistoric times at UNIVERLAND Le Bugue.
Le Parc du Bournat | Un voyage en 1900
8.0 km
Experience the nostalgia of 1900 at Le Parc du Bournat, an enchanting theme park in Le Bugue, combining history, fun, and family-friendly attractions.
Grotte de Bara-Bahau
8.3 km
Explore the enchanting Grotte de Bara-Bahau in Le Bugue, a captivating cave featuring stunning geological formations and rich prehistoric history.
Rouffignac Cave
8.5 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Rouffignac Cave, home to stunning prehistoric art and a breathtaking underground landscape in the heart of France's Dordogne region.
Essential places to dine
Hôtel Restaurant Le Centenaire
0.9 km
Experience delightful French and Mediterranean cuisine at Hôtel Restaurant Le Centenaire in scenic Les Eyzies.
La Maison
1.1 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine at La Maison in Les Eyzies – where local flavors meet culinary artistry in an unforgettable dining experience.
Hostellerie du Passeur - Les Eyzies
1.1 km
Discover comfort and exquisite French cuisine at Hostellerie du Passeur in Les Eyzies – your gateway to exploring the Dordogne's rich heritage.
Le 1862
1.6 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Le 1862 in Les Eyzies, where local flavors meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.
Auberge de l'Etang Joli
2.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge de l'Etang Joli in La Combe, where every dish is crafted with passion and precision.
Auberge de Layotte
4.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Auberge de Layotte in Tursac, where local flavors meet rustic charm amidst breathtaking scenery.
Restaurant du Château
5.7 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant du Château in Campagne - a culinary haven showcasing local flavors and timeless traditions.
Domaine de la Rhonie
5.8 km
Experience serene comfort and exquisite local cuisine at Domaine de la Rhonie in Meyrals - your perfect getaway in the Dordogne region.
Le Petit Léon
9.6 km
Discover Le Petit Léon: A culinary treasure in Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère serving modern French cuisine with exceptional service.
Logis Hôtel Archambeau
11.8 km
Discover tranquility and taste at Logis Hôtel Archambeau in Thonac – where comfort meets exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning landscapes.
Restaurant Auberge Des Tilleuls
11.8 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Auberge Des Tilleuls in Marnac – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
La Table de Monrecour
13.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Table de Monrecour in Saint-Vincent-de-Cosse - where exquisite flavors meet stunning views.
La Petite Tonnelle
14.1 km
Savor authentic French flavors at La Petite Tonnelle in Beynac-et-Cazenac - a culinary delight amidst stunning scenery.
Restaurant @ Restaurant Le Meysset
14.5 km
Discover the culinary excellence at Restaurant Le Meysset in Sarlat-la-Canéda - where local flavors meet French tradition.
Le Domaine du Terroir
15.9 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine and hospitality at Le Domaine du Terroir in La Chapelle-Aubareil - a culinary paradise awaits.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Les Comptoirs de la Bio Le Bugue
8.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of organic products at Les Comptoirs de la Bio Le Bugue, where sustainability meets flavor in a charming setting.
Bricorama Sarlat-La-Canéda
16.7 km
Explore Bricorama Sarlat-La-Canéda for all your DIY needs and unleash your creativity in home improvement.
E.Leclerc SARLAT
17.0 km
Discover E.Leclerc Sarlat, a vibrant hypermarket offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and everyday essentials in Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Gamm vert
17.6 km
Explore Gamm Vert in Sarlat-la-Canéda for an unparalleled selection of plants, gardening tools, and pet supplies in a serene garden center.
The house of Foie Gras
21.1 km
Discover the flavors of France at La Maison du Foie Gras in Domme, where gourmet delicacies meet tradition in a delightful shopping experience.
Bricorama Lalinde
24.7 km
Explore Bricorama Lalinde, a DIY paradise packed with tools, materials, and inspiration for all your home improvement and crafting needs.
Mes Jolies Merveilles
30.0 km
Explore Mes Jolies Merveilles: a unique blend of photography, wellness, and exquisite gifts in Boulazac Isle Manoire.
Cat Lovers
31.0 km
Explore Cat Lovers in Sannard: A delightful fashion accessories store dedicated to feline enthusiasts, offering unique decor and stylish accessories.
Nontron
31.5 km
Explore Nontron, France - A Hidden Gem of Cutlery Craftsmanship and Scenic Beauty
L'esprit Jardiland
31.9 km
Discover L'esprit Jardiland, a premier garden center in Terrasson-Lavilledieu, offering an array of plants, DIY tools, and pet supplies for nature enthusiasts.
parfums d'autrefois
32.9 km
Explore Parfums D'Autrefois, an antique store in Sanilhac offering unique vintage fragrances and historical artifacts for every enthusiast.
Super U et Drive
33.8 km
Discover the best of local shopping at Super U et Drive in Sanilhac, offering groceries, books, and delivery services in a friendly atmosphere.
HappeSmoke - Boutique Cigarette Electronique et CBD
34.0 km
Explore HappeSmoke in Boulazac Isle Manoire for top-tier vaporizers and CBD products in a welcoming boutique atmosphere.
Le Coin des Barons Périgueux (Omegastore)
34.1 km
Explore Le Coin des Barons Périgueux, a premier game store in Boulazac Isle Manoire, offering a diverse range of board games and collectibles for all ages.
Atypik Concept Objets déco et cadeaux
34.2 km
Explore Atypik Concept, a unique gift shop brimming with handcrafted items and local artistry, perfect for unforgettable souvenirs and corporate gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Taverne
7.6 km
Discover the charm of La Taverne in Saint-Cyprien, where authentic French cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for travelers.
Restaurant Maleville
14.2 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Restaurant Maleville in Beynac-et-Cazenac, a culinary gem with local flavors and stunning views.
L'Endroit
15.9 km
Experience the best of French cuisine and creative cocktails at L'Endroit, a vibrant bar and restaurant in Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Bar club à striptease le BARON
16.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Le BARON, a captivating lounge in Sarlat-la-Canéda, blending entertainment and elegance for an unforgettable evening.
Au Bureau Boulazac
34.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delectable dishes at Au Bureau Boulazac, a perfect blend of bar and restaurant in Boulazac Isle Manoire.
BAM Brasserie Artisanale
35.2 km
BAM Brasserie Artisanale: A delightful brewpub in Périgueux offering artisanal beers and exquisite local cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
The Silver Owl
36.4 km
Discover The Silver Owl in Périgueux, a cocktail bar and restaurant offering exquisite tapas and creative drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
La Clarté du Vin - bar à vin
36.4 km
Discover the best wine and tapas in Périgueux at La Clarté du Vin, your go-to wine bar for an unforgettable tasting experience.
Heilan Coo
36.5 km
Discover Heilan Coo: a vibrant pub in Périgueux, where craft beers and delicious burgers come together in a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Le Petit caviste by le Tib'
36.5 km
Explore fine wines and delightful pairings at Le Petit Caviste by Le Tib' in the heart of Périgueux, an essential stop for wine lovers.
Watson's Pub
36.5 km
Enjoy a delightful mix of brasserie and pub fare at Watson's Pub in Périgueux, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Le QG
36.5 km
Discover the vibrant social scene at Le QG, a popular bar in Périgueux offering a delightful selection of drinks and local charm.
L'Amandine
36.5 km
Discover L'Amandine: A cozy bar in Périgueux offering local drinks and a charming atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Le 4YM
36.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Périgueux at Le 4YM, a cozy bar offering an extensive drink menu and a warm atmosphere for relaxation and fun.
Le Café de la Place Périgueux
36.5 km
Discover Le Café de la Place Périgueux: A charming bar, restaurant, and brewery in the heart of Périgueux offering delightful local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Le Lucky
12.9 km
Unleash your energy at Le Lucky, the vibrant night club in Siorac-en-Périgord, where music meets fun in a delightful atmosphere.
$ CB a!45
16.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife at $ CB a!45, Sarlat-la-Canéda's premier night club for unforgettable experiences and vibrant music.
Discothèque le SUN7
19.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Sarlat-la-Canéda at Discothèque le SUN7, where music and dance create unforgettable memories.
Xaserca
27.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Xaserca, a lively night club in Le Lardin-Saint-Lazare offering music, dancing, and a fun atmosphere for all.
Club Expression
35.8 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Club Expression in Périgueux, where music, dancing, and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable experiences.
La Suite
36.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of La Suite in Périgueux, where unforgettable moments and pulsating beats await every night.
L'Ubu Club - Périgueux
37.1 km
Experience the lively nightlife at L'Ubu Club in Périgueux, where vibrant music and an energetic atmosphere await every party-goer.
H-TAG Discothèque - Périgueux
37.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Périgueux at H-TAG Discothèque - where the music, dance, and good vibes never stop.
Z'N - Creysse
39.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Z'N - Creysse, a vibrant disco club where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
Le calin
53.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Le Calin, the premier night club in Saint-Médard-de-Mussidan, where energy meets entertainment.
Eden Club - Brantôme en Périgord
62.9 km
Eden Club in Brantôme en Périgord: where vibrant nightlife, electrifying music, and unforgettable dance experiences come together.
Majesty Club Limoges
98.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Majesty Club Limoges, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await every weekend.
